New region-city mayors must consult small businesses, says FSB

23 October 2015 15:15

In response to Chancellor George Osborne’s announcement of two new devolution deals in the North-East and the Tees Valley, John Allan, National Chairman of the Federation of Small Businesses, said:

“This represents a huge opportunity for local authorites in the North-East and Tees Valley to work together to boost local growth. These two region-city deals offer devolved power opportunity, in return for agreeing to be run by directly elected mayors. Both mayors will have the power to raise business rates but the Chancellor has made it clear that any rise would need the support of the local business community.

“We believe it is crucial for a robust, transparent system to ensure that small businesses are properly consulted and have a strong voice in any tax raising decisions. This will help assure our members that any consultations and changes will take into account their views, and reflect the wishes of the whole business community.”

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About Federation of Small Businesses

The Federation of Small Businesses is the UK's largest campaigning pressure group promoting and protecting the interests of the self-employed and owners of small firms. Formed in 1974, it now has around 200,000 members across 33 regions and 188 branches.